Chiqué by Ricardo Brignolo

Chiqué is a Tango written by Ricardo Brignolo and composed by Ricardo Luis Brignolo.

Story behind the Tango Chiqué

The lyrics of “Chiqué” depict a narrative of nostalgic love and social dynamics, focusing on a character who struggles with seeing a loved one in a new, affluent lifestyle brought on by another’s wealth. The key phrase “Ya me estoy poniendo mal de verte así” which translates to “I am already getting sick of seeing you like this” opens the song, setting a tone of discomfort and sadness. This anguish roots from seeing the loved one dressed opulently (“con las pilchas tan de bute”) due to the riches gifted by another person. There’s a yearning for the past, particularly remembering when the person was more approachable, symbolized by the old neighborhood (“la vieja querencia”) and the humble room (“aquel bulín”).

Symbolism of Chiqué

The title “Chiqué” itself symbolizes pretense or facade, aligning with the main character’s perception of the significant other’s new life as a veneer funded by wealth. The imagery of luxurious clothing and accessories marks a departure from past simplicity, which distresses the narrator. The repeated mention of “Yo también” at the end signifies the narrator’s self-acknowledgment of being genuine and straightforward, contrasting with the life of pretense he observes.

Chiqué in historic Context

Recorded in 1970, the socioeconomic context of Argentina during this period was marked by political upheaval and economic instability. This era saw a growing disparity between the wealthy and the poor, which is reflectively echoed in the song’s themes of wealth-induced separation. The Tango, often a reflective medium for societal concerns, here discusses the impact of materialism on personal relationships and communal bonds.

Ricardo Brignolo

Ricardo Brignolo was a renowned Tango lyricist known for capturing the essence of Argentine culture and emotion in his compositions.